Environmental science is increasingly interdisciplinary, combining biology, chemistry, data science, policy, and public health. As a high school student interested in environmental science, participating in structured programs can help you move beyond textbook concepts and apply your knowledge to real-world problems. Many environmental science programs for high school students include hands-on fieldwork, data collection, GIS mapping, ecological analysis, and sustainability research. These experiences can help you develop technical skills while understanding how environmental challenges affect communities.
Environmental science programs for high school students in Philadelphia are particularly valuable because they expose you to urban ecosystems, watershed systems, and environmental justice initiatives. You may analyze water quality in local rivers, study biodiversity in urban parks, or explore sustainability planning across neighborhoods. These environmental science programs for high school students in Philadelphia also often involve partnerships with universities, nonprofits, and government agencies, giving you exposure to different environmental career paths.
Why should you choose a program in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia offers a unique setting for environmental science learning. The city includes major river systems like the Schuylkill and Delaware, urban green infrastructure projects, and active environmental policy initiatives. Environmental science programs for high school students in Philadelphia often incorporate fieldwork, community engagement, and applied research. You can explore environmental justice, conservation, climate resilience, and urban sustainability within a single metropolitan area.
Below is a curated list of 15 environmental science programs for high school students in Philadelphia. If you are exploring similar opportunities, you can also check out our guides on summer programs for high school students in Philadelphia here and environmental science research programs for high school students here.
15 Environmental Science Programs for High School Students in Philadelphia
1. Penn Environmental Policy Academy
Location: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
Cost: $6,700 (scholarships available for students from qualifying schools)
Dates: July 11–25
Application Deadline: May 1
Eligibility: 9th to 11th graders with a minimum 3.5 high school GPA
This environmental science program in Philadelphia introduces high school students to how policy frameworks are used to address environmental issues. You examine topics such as air and water regulation, renewable energy, and emerging contaminants through lectures and structured discussions. Case studies and guest speakers help you connect legal and regulatory concepts to real-world decision-making. Field-based components provide additional context on how policies are implemented outside the classroom. Throughout the program, you work in a small group to research an environmental issue and develop a policy recommendation, culminating in a presentation where you explain your findings and proposed solutions.
2. Friends of the Wissahickon Internship
Location: Wissahickon Valley Park, Philadelphia, PA
Stipend: $1,320
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 5 students
Dates: July 8–August 14
Application Deadline: April 16
Eligibility: School District of Philadelphia freshmen, sophomores, or juniors who are U.S. citizens and are physically capable
This field-based experience focuses on land stewardship and introduces you to practical environmental work in a public park setting. You learn how to use tools safely while developing skills in trail maintenance, habitat restoration, and basic plant identification. Daily tasks may include managing stormwater systems, supporting planting efforts, and assisting with site upkeep. The internship also emphasizes teamwork, as you collaborate with staff and volunteers on ongoing conservation projects. You also practice communication skills by interacting with the public and helping coordinate group activities.
3. Bartram’s Garden Earth Seeds Ecology Internship
Location: Bartram’s Garden, Philadelphia, PA
Stipend: $11-$12.50/hour
Dates: Spring (10 hours/week) | Summer (June 29–August 7) | Fall (10 hours/week)
Application Deadline: April 3
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors (ages 14–18) in Southwest Philadelphia
This environmental science internship combines ecology, community engagement, and hands-on land-based work for high school students in Philadelphia. You take part in activities such as plant care, landscape design, seed collection, and land management while learning how these practices connect to broader ecological systems. The program also introduces topics such as botany, entomology, and climate change, alongside discussions of environmental history and policy. You develop practical skills such as teamwork, communication, and basic horticultural techniques. In addition to fieldwork, you engage in group discussions that explore cultural and community relationships with the environment.
4. Student Conservation Association (SCA) Urban Green Philadelphia Youth Conservation Crew
Location: John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, Philadelphia, PA
Stipend: $11/hr
Dates: March 7–June 6
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Students aged 14–18
This environmental science program provides high school students with hands-on experience in conservation work in urban ecosystems. You participate in projects such as trail building, invasive species removal, tree planting, and habitat restoration. The program also incorporates environmental education sessions that introduce you to local ecosystems and biodiversity. Alongside fieldwork, you engage in activities focused on leadership and workforce readiness. The experience provides insight into how conservation efforts are carried out within a city environment like Philadelphia.
5. Schuylkill Acts & Impacts
Location: 120-mile expedition along the Schuylkill River
Cost: None
Dates: July 12–17
Application Deadline: Recommendations due by April 3
Eligibility: High school students living in Schuylkill, Berks, Chester, Montgomery, or Philadelphia counties | Limited to 12 students
This environmental science program immerses high school students in a multi-day watershed study along the Schuylkill River. You examine how land use and human activity influence water quality through fieldwork, water sampling, and guided observations. The program includes discussions with environmental professionals and policymakers to provide insight into watershed management. You travel through different sections of the river, allowing you to compare environmental conditions across locations. The experience focuses on connecting field observations with broader environmental systems and policy considerations.
6. Bartram’s Garden ROOTS Tree Crew Youth Internship
Location: Bartram’s Garden, Philadelphia, PA
Stipend: $11-$12.50/hour
Dates: Fall and Spring (8.5 hrs/week) | Summer (up to 20 hrs/week)
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors (14+) in Southwest or West Philadelphia
This environmental science experience focuses on urban forestry and community-based environmental work in Philadelphia. You learn practical skills related to tree planting, maintenance, and basic landscape design while working alongside horticulturists. Training includes certification in tree care, along with instruction in tool use and planting techniques. The program also explores how environmental issues connect to topics like history, policy, and community planning. You participate in outreach efforts, including engaging with residents and supporting local planting initiatives. Additional activities, such as leading tree tours and contributing to community science projects, build both communication and field-based skills.
7. Overbrook Youth Environmental Stewards (O’YES)
Location: Overbrook Environmental Education Center, Philadelphia, PA
Cost: None
Dates: 2-year program
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: 9th to 11th graders
This environmental science program for high school students focuses on environmental health, policy, and community awareness. You study topics such as water quality, hazardous waste exposure, energy use, and pollution management. Workshops and media-based activities help you understand how environmental issues affect public health. The curriculum also introduces key environmental laws and regulatory frameworks that shape environmental protection efforts. You develop communication skills by participating in outreach and awareness initiatives. The program connects classroom concepts to real-world environmental conditions in Philadelphia communities.
8. Schuylkill Center Wildlife Clinic Volunteers
Location: The Schuylkill Center, Philadelphia, PA
Cost: None
Dates: Year-round (training sessions vary)
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Volunteers who are 16+ (18+ for animal care)
This environmental science volunteer opportunity in Philadelphia provides insight into wildlife rehabilitation and animal care systems. You begin with foundational tasks such as maintaining enclosures, preparing diets, and supporting clinic operations. Older students may assist with monitoring animal health, recording data, and supporting feeding routines. Training is structured in stages, allowing you to build skills gradually while working alongside staff and experienced volunteers. The program emphasizes consistency, attention to detail, and adherence to safety and ethical guidelines.
9. Drexel Public Health Summer Institute
Location: Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA
Cost: $450
Dates: Session I: July 6–10 | Session II: July 20–24
Application Deadline: June 19
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors
In this program, you explore how environmental factors intersect with public health outcomes in urban settings like Philadelphia. The curriculum introduces topics such as epidemiology, health policy, prevention strategies, and environmental health. You engage in lectures, collaborative problem-solving activities, and discussions led by faculty and public health professionals. Site visits and field experiences provide context for how health systems operate and respond to community needs, while group projects and presentations allow you to apply concepts to real-world scenarios.
10. Temple University Summer Academy
Location: Temple University, Philadelphia, PA
Cost: $3,700 + optional residential costs | Financial aid and scholarships available
Dates: July 6–31
Application Deadline: May 1
Eligibility: Rising 11th and 12th graders
This program includes a course called ‘Disasters: Geology Vs Hollywood’ that introduces high school students to geologic hazards through the lens of popular media. You analyze film scenes to evaluate how accurately they depict events such as volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and climate-related disasters. The coursework covers concepts like plate tectonics, seismic data analysis, and volcanic processes. You also learn how to interpret scientific data and apply it to real-world scenarios. Assignments include developing a disaster preparedness plan based on geologic risk factors.
11. Penn Online Seminars: Global Food Systems – History, Power, and Politics
Location: Virtual
Cost: $2,950 (scholarships available for students from qualifying schools)
Dates: July 13–24
Application Deadline: June 1
Eligibility: 9th to 11th graders | International students can apply
This program for high school students examines how global food systems are shaped by historical, political, and social forces. You investigate questions around food production, distribution, and access using perspectives from history, sociology, and anthropology. The course emphasizes critical reading and discussion as you analyze how food systems influence both human societies and environmental outcomes. You work with a range of sources to build arguments about issues such as food insecurity, agricultural policy, and food justice. Through this process, you gain experience connecting environmental challenges to broader global systems.
12. Philadelphia Zoo Volun-TEEN Summer
Location: Philadelphia Zoo, Philadelphia, PA
Cost: None
Dates: June 29–August 14
Application Deadline: May 1
Eligibility: Teens aged 14-17
This program introduces high school students to conservation education through direct interaction with zoo visitors. You are trained to communicate scientific information about animals and ecosystems using interactive activities and discussions. The experience focuses on building public-facing skills as you guide guests through conservation-related concepts and actions. You also have the option to attend workshops on topics within modern zoological science, led by zoo staff.
13. Bartram’s Garden Sankofa Community Farm Youth Internship
Location: Bartram’s Garden, Philadelphia, PA
Stipend: $11-$12.50/hour
Dates: Year-round
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors (14+) in Southwest Philadelphia
This environmental science internship centers on sustainable agriculture, food systems, and community-based learning for high school students in Philadelphia. You take part in hands-on farming activities, including planting, harvesting, and maintaining crops using sustainable methods. The program also incorporates lessons on nutrition, food preparation, and the cultural history of food practices. In addition to fieldwork, you participate in discussions and workshops that connect agriculture to broader environmental and social systems. You may also help lead volunteer sessions and support community education efforts.
14. TTF Watershed Partnership Summer Environmental Internship
Location: TTF Watershed Partnership, Philadelphia, PA
Stipend: $15.50/hr
Dates: 12 weeks from June to August
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Students interested in nature, environmental justice, and community work
This environmental science internship combines watershed education with communication and outreach work. You contribute to activities such as event coordination, community engagement, and volunteer organization. Tasks may also include writing about environmental topics, supporting social media efforts, and assisting with data-related work. Through these responsibilities, you learn how environmental organizations communicate with the public and manage programs. The internship also introduces key concepts related to watershed systems, access to green spaces, and environmental justice.
15. Penn Pre-College Online Program: Earth Systems Science
Location: Virtual
Cost: $8,692 (1 unit) | $14,300 (2 units) | Scholarships available for students from qualifying schools
Dates: May 26–July 1
Application Deadline: May 1
Eligibility: Current 10th to 11th grade students
In this online environmental science program, high school students study Earth as an interconnected system by examining the atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, and biosphere. You explore how these systems interact and how human activity influences environmental processes. Coursework follows a college-level structure, with assignments including research papers, exams, and regular readings. You participate in classes alongside undergraduate students and are evaluated using the same academic standards. By the end, you gain a foundational understanding of Earth systems and their role in environmental science.
One more option – Horizon Academic Research Program
If you’re interested in conducting advanced research in environmental science, sustainability, or climate science, consider applying to Horizon’s Research Seminars and Labs! This is a selective virtual research program that lets you engage in advanced research and develop a research paper on a subject of your choosing. Horizon has worked with 1000+ high school students so far and offers 600+ research specializations for you to choose from. You can find the application link here!
Image source: Temple University